🔥🏟️Former Arsenal winger Robert Pires thinks Marcus Rashford of Manchester United is a “technically stronger” player than England international Bukayo Saka and has questioned Saka’s consistency.

Bukayo Saka has been a key player for Arsenal over the past three Premier League seasons, scoring an impressive 41 goals and delivering 27 assists. His remarkable consistency has seen him miss just three league games in that time, while he has continuously improved his output with each passing season. Saka’s contribution has been vital to Arsenal’s attacking play, and he has established himself as one of the brightest young talents in English football. His ability to perform week in and week out has made him a fan favorite at the Emirates Stadium.

On the other hand, Jeremy Doku, a young and exciting winger, joined Manchester City last summer for a hefty transfer fee of €63 million. In his debut Premier League season, Doku featured in 29 league matches, with 11 of those appearances coming off the bench. Despite not always being a regular starter, his dynamic performances helped Pep Guardiola’s side clinch their fourth consecutive Premier League title. Doku’s pace, dribbling ability, and attacking threat added depth to an already formidable City squad, further establishing him as one of the league’s rising stars.

In a recent interview that might stir some controversy among Arsenal supporters, former club legend Robert Pires shared his thoughts on Saka’s development. Pires, who once dazzled at Highbury with his silky skills and playmaking ability, believes that while Saka is a talented player, he needs to elevate his performances, particularly in high-stakes situations, if he wants to surpass the level of Marcus Rashford.

Speaking to Wettbasis.com, as reported by The Mirror, Pires said: “Bukayo still lacks a certain level of consistency and experience, especially in the big games. Perhaps this season, especially in the Champions League, he will show a more convincing face than last season when it counts.” Pires’ comments suggest that, while Saka has made a significant impact in the Premier League, there is still room for growth in terms of his ability to rise to the occasion when it matters most, particularly on the European stage.

Pires went on to make a comparison between Saka and Manchester United’s Marcus Rashford, stating: “In my opinion, Rashford from Manchester United is a bit better because he is technically stronger, has better dribbling skills, and is more imaginative.” The former French international emphasized Rashford’s ability to unlock defenses with his creativity and flair, something he feels Saka is still developing.

This comparison raises an interesting debate, as both players are among the brightest talents in English football, each bringing unique qualities to their respective teams. While Rashford is known for his technical brilliance and eye-catching dribbling, Saka has earned plaudits for his versatility, work rate, and footballing intelligence. However, as Pires suggests, it may be Saka’s performances in crucial matches—such as in the Champions League—that will ultimately determine his place among the elite players in world football.

As the new season unfolds, all eyes will be on Saka to see whether he can take that next step in his development, particularly in the biggest competitions. His journey from an academy prospect to a first-team regular has been remarkable, but the challenge ahead will be to prove his ability to consistently shine on the biggest stages, just as players like Rashford have done.